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SAN FRANCISCO The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is seeking nearly $5,000 in fines against two northern Nevada True Value stores for selling residential pesticides that contain chlorpyrifos, a chemical that has been federally restricted since 2001.

The EPA seeks a fine of $4,400 from North Valleys True Value of Reno alleging that in March, 2004, the store offered for sale Greenthumb Flea & Tick Killer, a pesticide designed for residential use that contains chlorpyrifos. In a separate settlement, Shellys True Value of Sparks has agreed to pay a penalty of $500, for allegedly selling True Value Greenthumb Borer Spray II,” which is also a pesticide designed for residential use that contains chlorpyrifos.

The EPA removed chlorpyrifos from the residential market due to its potential health risks, especially to children said Enrique Manzanilla, the Communities and Ecosystems Division director for the EPAs Pacific Southwest region. Retailers selling pesticides to the general public must ensure those products are legal.

Retail sales of most residential-use chlorpyrifos pesticides have been prohibited since Dec. 31, 2001. Chlorpyrifos can damage the nervous system and interfere with brain development. Short term exposure can result in confusion, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. The metabolites of chlorpyrifos continue to be found in human tissue. Today’s announcement stems from March 2004 inspections conducted by the Nevada Department of Agriculture.

Consumers may still legally use remaining stocks of chlorpyrifos products, provided that they follow all label directions and precautions. Use of these products according to label directions does not pose an immediate hazard. However, consumers who choose to use these products or any pesticide should always take special care to read and follow the label precautions and directions.

Consumers may contact their local solid waste agency for disposal information.